Those who love their pets tend to enjoy all animals. Our animal owners are no different. Check in on News-Herald staffers Robin Palmer and Cheryl Sadler as they share their own animal tales and announce upcoming events in Lake and Geauga counties.

Monday, October 1, 2012

Have you named a pet guardian?

Fluffy and Spot probably hold an important place in your heart — and they should hold an important place in your estate planning as well, according to Hehr & Hehr Co., LPA.:

No matter how much you love your pets and feel they are “part of the family,” they are generally seen as property by the Cuyahoga County courts and are therefore treated accordingly. This can cause some concern for pet owners who want to ensure their pets are well-cared-for and able to transition as smoothly as possible after the death or incapacitation of an owner.
One option which many pet owners are now exercising is to create a pet trust. This type of trust is used to protect the pet in case you are unable to do so. The trust will likely specify your chosen pet guardian, which can either be an individual or an organization. This entity will be responsible for taking care of the pet either until the owner is able to do so again or permanently, depending upon the situation. In the latter case, it may even be necessary for the entity to arrange to officially adopt the pet.